Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are both chronic conditions that affect how the body regulates blood sugar, but they have key differences in cause, onset, and management. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, people with Type 1 diabetes produce little to no insulin and must rely on daily insulin injections or pump therapy to manage their blood glucose levels. In contrast, Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t use it effectively. The pancreas still produces insulin, but the cells do not respond to it properly, leading to high blood sugar levels over time. This form of diabetes usually develops in adults, though it is increasingly seen in children due to rising obesity rates. 

3. Can diabetes be reversed with lifestyle changes? 

In some cases, Type 2 diabetes can be reversed or put into remission through significant lifestyle changes. This means that blood sugar levels return to a normal range without the need for medication, although ongoing monitoring is still essential. Reversal is often achieved through a combination of healthy eating, regular physical activity, weight loss, and stress management. Losing even a small amount of weight around 5–10% of body weight can greatly improve insulin sensitivity. However, it’s important to note that Type 1 diabetes cannot be reversed, as it is an autoimmune condition requiring lifelong insulin therapy. 

4. Can stress affect blood sugar levels in diabetics? 

stress can affect blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. When you're stressed, your body releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can raise blood glucose levels by prompting the liver to release more sugar into the bloodstream. In people with Type 2 diabetes, this often leads to prolonged high blood sugar. Additionally, stress may lead to unhealthy habits like overeating, skipping meals, or reduced physical activity, which can worsen blood sugar control. Managing stress through relaxation, exercise, sleep, and mindfulness is important for better diabetes management. 

5. What are the complications of uncontrolled diabetes? 

Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to a range of serious and potentially life-threatening complications affecting various organs and systems in the body. Over time, persistently high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and nerves, leading to heart disease, stroke, kidney failure (diabetic nephropathy), and vision problems (diabetic retinopathy). It can also cause nerve damage (neuropathy), resulting in pain, tingling, or loss of sensation, especially in the feet, increasing the risk of infections and amputations.